San Jose Standard

SAN JOSE, Calif. (April 16, 2024) – After a nationwide recruitment process, City Manager Jennifer Maguire has announced the appointment of Erik Louis Soliván as the City’s new Director of Housing, effective May 13. Soliván brings a wealth of experience in affordable housing developments and homelessness prevention, making him a valuable addition to the San José community.

Maguire expressed confidence in Soliván's abilities, stating, "Erik’s experience in delivering affordable housing developments to help prevent homelessness will help us with what is one of the biggest challenges of our generation." Mayor Matt Mahan echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of Soliván's role in addressing homelessness and housing affordability issues, saying, “No issues matter more to our residents than homelessness and housing affordability, and I look forward to Erik driving the change we need to deliver better, faster results for our community.”

With a background spanning over 17 years in the public and private housing sectors, Soliván has a proven track record of collaborating with diverse groups to produce housing for families at all income levels. His previous roles include leadership positions in organizations such as the Philadelphia Housing Authority and Denver’s Office of Housing and Opportunity, where he spearheaded significant affordable housing initiatives.

In his own words, Soliván expressed his commitment to building relationships and trust among various stakeholders in San José to achieve the common goals of creating abundant housing stock, ending homelessness, and fostering equitable neighborhoods. Reflecting on his personal journey from public housing and migrant roots, Soliván's professional endeavors are deeply intertwined with his personal experiences.

As the new Director of Housing, Soliván will oversee a department with a substantial annual budget and a dedicated team of over 100 employees. The Housing Department's mission focuses on affordable housing management, production, and preservation, as well as homelessness interventions, neighborhood investments, and rent stabilization efforts.

The City of San José, known for its innovative spirit and diverse population, welcomes Erik Louis Soliván as the leader of its Housing Department. Soliván's appointment signifies a strategic step towards addressing housing challenges and enhancing community well-being in the vibrant city of San José.